Leaguer

Mark Cousins Promoted to Athletic Director

By Julianne Coyne | Tuesday, May 17, 2011 2:07 PM

Mark talks with UIL staff at the 2010 Track and Field State Meet.

Dr. Mark Cousins started his career with the UIL in 1994 as an intern while he was pursuing his master’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin. From there, he’s held a variety of positions at the League: He’s been an administrative assistant, the assistant to the athletic director, an assistant athletic director and policy director.

Recently, he got one more position to add to that list: athletic director.

“Having served in a number of capacities within the UIL, I can see the way it works and the things that need to be done for the organization to be successful,” Cousins said. “I think that definitely helps when approaching this job.”

Cousins said he doesn’t have plans for big changes as athletic director.

“We really rely on our member schools to see what needs to be done, so listening to our member schools and the different associations that provide input will help us determine what directions we’ll take in the future,” Cousins said.

The state budget situation will play a role in the way he approaches the athletic director position, though, Cousins said.

“It’s a difficult time for our member schools with the budget situation and the uncertainty that comes with it,” Cousins said. “We’re going to make sure we handle our operations in an efficient manner so we don’t burden school districts with additional cost.”

Cousins was a great fit for this position because of his unique qualifications, UIL Executive Director Dr. Charles Breithaupt said.

“His experience with the development of rules and policies through the Legislative Council process and his valuable knowledge of the infrastructure of the UIL were significant to his appointment,” Breithaupt said.

Cousins has worked on litigation and legislation on behalf of the League for the last 10 years, and his work with the Medical Advisory Committee and as Policy Director give him a unique perspective of the issues facing his department, Breithaupt said.

“Because Mark came from a family of educators and participated in a wide range of UIL activities, he will provide balance and integrity to the UIL,” Breithaupt said. “We are fortunate to have someone with his skill set and experiences to move the UIL Athletic Department in a positive direction.”